Oregon’s top news this week centers on the signing of the emergency transportation bill by Governor Tina Kotek, a move aimed at shoring up road and transit funding over the next decade. The legislation, raising $4.3 billion for the Oregon Department of Transportation, includes increases to the gas tax, vehicle title and registration fees, and the payroll tax. However, Republican leaders criticized the governor’s timing in making the bill official, contending it limited the window for citizens opposing the new taxes to gather signatures for a potential referendum. If the opposition gains enough signatures, some tax increases could appear on the November 2026 ballot, heightening political tensions around transportation funding priorities according to KATU News.

The close of the 2025 Oregon legislative session brought mixed results for lawmakers and communities across the state. Efforts to pass a more expansive $11.6 billion transportation package stalled earlier in the year after Democrats, despite controlling both legislative chambers, couldn’t secure full party support for the larger tax hikes initially proposed. According to the NFIB, business interests are closely watching additional proposals such as raising the Corporate Activity Tax exemption and restoring hiring and retention bonuses, key issues for many small businesses facing rising costs and labor challenges.

In business news, the city of La Pine is welcoming Western Metrology Sales LLC as it relocates its headquarters from Wilsonville, an expected boost to regional employment and investment after years of negotiation, reported by the Bend Bulletin. The Portland area also saw movement in education infrastructure, as Cleveland High School’s modernization plan entered the land use review phase, while OHSU prepared for mental health facility upgrades. The Daily Journal of Commerce noted these projects are part of broader efforts to update and expand Oregon’s educational and health infrastructure.

School funding remains a contentious issue. Voters in Lake Oswego approved a $245 million bond for campus reconstruction and safety upgrades, with a strong 71 percent support, illustrating ongoing commitment to public education. In contrast, other districts including Oregon Trail and Sandy saw significant bond measures rejected, highlighting persistent regional divides over school infrastructure funding, as detailed by OPB and The Outlook Online. Meanwhile, Coos Bay’s city council has paved the way for improved Safe Routes to School infrastructure, a step toward securing ODOT grants for safer student commutes.

Oregonians saw variable weather heading into Veterans Day week. According to KATU and the National Weather Service, a mild and sunny holiday is expected to quickly transition to rain and cooler temperatures midweek, bringing more snow to mountain passes. The Oregon Coast experienced the first king tides of the season, with waves surging over 10 feet and raising concerns about erosion and coastal flooding. Experts warn these dramatic tides, captured by OPB, may signal future hazards as sea levels rise.

Looking ahead, listeners can expect a flurry of activity as opposition groups race to gather signatures for a possible ballot referendum on the new transportation taxes before the December 30 deadline. The state’s evolving response to education, infrastructure, and business challenges will likely dominate public debate in the coming months, alongside ongoing legislative preparations for 2027 and the impacts of winter weather on both travel and local economies.

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